Adventure Description

Silverwood Lake Swim Beach is a sandy area along the southern part of Silverwood Lake, which is a reservoir. When on duty, lifeguards keep watch over swimmers in the summer months. Popular activities include swimming, waterskiing, boating, and fishing, and the lake is teeming with catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, and trout. The beach is conveniently located within walking distance of bathrooms, parking areas, and a picnic area.

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area is an excellent place to begin exploring the San Bernardino National Forest. Situated between Lake Arrowhead and the Angeles National Forest, Silverwood Lake is actually a reservoir and part of the California aqueduct system. Power boats are allowed in most areas of the lake, but the water just off the Silverwood Lake Swim Beach and the Cleghorn Day Use Area and Swim Beach is off limits to motorized boats.

Keep an eye out for wildlife as you lounge on the sand. In addition to the fish listed above, a wide variety of mammals and birds live in the area. Squirrels and chipmunks skitter around in the sycamores and willows, as do songbirds like the iridescent mountain bluebird. Great blue herons, loons, and ducks spend time in and around the water. Turn your gaze skyward to see the Cooper’s hawks and osprey that are common in the area.